The TSA has extended the deadline for the TWIC until spring. You have to physically go to the enrollment center to apply and then return in 3-4 weeks to pick up your card. More information can be found at TSA.gov/twic.

The TSA has extended the deadline for the TWIC until spring. You have to physically go to the enrollment center to apply and then return in 3-4 weeks to pick up your card. More information can be found at TSA.gov/twic.

Last time I renewed my Master's Ticket ($125 USD) and Z Card ($45 USD) it cost me an additional $875 to chase-down all the papers, cross every T, dot every I, notarize signatures, analize my urine, and travel to submit finger prints, electronically.

Seems that during the time it takes the average mariner to collect everything necessary for credential renewal - and the latest badge to show the guards - they add more requirements and declare all forms previously submitted "obsolite".

Perhaps my finger prints have changed significantly in the 33 years since the USCG have kept them on record... but I doubt it.